It’s a
fact: even negative publicity is a great marketing tool. When such publicity surrounds a controversial
public structure you can almost be guaranteed that this will either become a
monumental success or failure … no middle road.
This seems to have been the precise sentiment that shrouded the design,
construction and unveiling of Calgary’s Peace Bridge. Designed for pedestrian use, it would seem
that the structure attracted negative publicity from the get-go. Awarded to a non-Canadian Architect, partly
constructed overseas, imported and installed at immense cost with little or no
respect of budget, this landmark was birthed in turbulence, contrary to its
name: Peace. Following its 2 year
construction, when it was finally opened in March 2012, Calgarians began to warm
to their new city landmark despite the preceding furore.
 |
| The fluorescent glow of the Bridge against the illuminated Calgary skyline [DD] |
Now,
synonymous with the Calgary skyline, it attracts visitors who marvel at its
unique construction and alluring beauty. The red helical design was constructed
of steel with perspex roof panels, protecting pedestrians from the weather
elements while allowing in natural light during the day and facilitating attractive
internal lighting at night. Spanning
130m across the Bow River it is double the width of any other pedestrian bridge
in the City at 6m, enabling pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy the space
together with ease. All who pass her by
are afforded memorable photo opportunities of the bridge and from
the bridge. She has even become the
central focus of Calgary and Canada events, including the touring giant red ball project that
formed part of Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations in 2017.
 |
| The Bridge spanning the Bow River from Memorial Drive on the right to Downtown on the left [DD] |
 |
| River and fall foliage views from the bridge deck [DD] |
 |
| A view of the steel, helical belly of the bridge photographed while floating down the Bow River [DD] |
Overview
information about the Peace Bridge:
- Location:
- Straddles the Bow River connecting the
northern Bow River Pathway and Memorial Drive to the southern Bow River
Pathway and Downtown Calgary
- GPS: 51.053885, -114.078903
- Google
Maps
- Access:
Family-friendly; disabled access; pet-friendly
- How to get there:
- LRT: disembark at the westbound 7th
St SW LRT station or eastbound 8th St SW station then walk
north on 7th St SW
- Bus transit: numerous bus stations and
routes are available in the vicinity; visit Calgary Transit to plan your trip
- Cycle / walk: access via the northern and
southern Bow River Pathway west of Prince’s Island Park
- Car: up to 3hrs of paid street parking is
available on 3rd Ave and 8th St SW
- Cost: no access charge; payment for
parking may apply
- Hours of
operation:
- Always open unless closed for maintenance
- Amenities: no public washrooms available;
public benches for seating are available in the area
- Nearby
attractions, activities & services:
- Calgary Curling Club
- Memorial Drive
- Prince’s Island Park
- Memorial Drive Field of Crosses
- Eau Claire Market
- Alforno
Bakery and Cafe
- Downtown
- Kensington
- Poppy Plaza
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